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Ian, Senior Cybersecurity Analyst at Aleta Technologies Inc.: Advize Career Interview
Aleta Technologies Inc.'s Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, a University of Arizona graduate with a management information systems degree specializing in cybersecurity, reveals a dynamic career path starting with Raytheon Technologies and culminating in a role encompassing all aspects of systems protection.
This professional's daily work involves constant research, policy review, and collaboration, emphasizing the crucial skills of continuous learning, effective communication, and a willingness to ask questions.
The biggest challenges include bridging the gap between government regulations and private industry needs in OT cybersecurity and fostering collaboration between IT and OT professionals.
However, the rewarding aspects include working with exceptionally knowledgeable colleagues, constantly learning about emerging threats and technologies, and making a tangible impact by solving problems and presenting solutions.
Entry-level opportunities abound for undergraduates, with a strong emphasis on networking and acquiring foundational certifications like CompTIA Security+ or A+.
A key takeaway is the importance of building strong relationships and embracing a growth mindset, even acknowledging that it is acceptable to not possess all the answers.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Ian Knutson
Senior Cybersecurity Analyst
Aleta Technologies Inc.
University of Arizona 2015
Western Governors University Masters of Science Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Computer Science
Aerospace & Defense
Cyber Security and IT
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Career Path of a Senior Cybersecurity Analyst at Aleta Technologies Inc.
Ian's career path began with a management information systems degree specializing in cybersecurity at the University of Arizona, leading to a role at Raytheon Technologies where they gained experience in "policy reviews, trainings, teachings, accreditations of computer systems." This experience propelled them through roles focusing on factory cybersecurity and industrial control systems, culminating in their current position at Aleta Technologies Inc., where they handle "literally everything...as it pertains to the systems and how they're protected."
Main Responsibilities of a Senior Cybersecurity Analyst at Aleta Technologies Inc.
Ian's main responsibility as a Senior Cybersecurity Analyst at Aleta Technologies Inc. involves significant "research and development work," focusing on "OT Cybersecurity." This includes gathering information from diverse sources, such as "articles, policies, memorandums...news articles, tweets, LinkedIn posts," to inform current projects.
A Day In The Life Of A Senior Cybersecurity Analyst At Aleta Technologies Inc.
A senior cybersecurity analyst's workday involves constant vigilance, with Ian describing "every hour" spent reviewing news feeds and policies alongside meetings and task-oriented work. This highlights the dynamic and proactive nature of the role, requiring meticulous planning and a commitment to continuous learning, as illustrated by maintaining "a tasker list" to manage daily, weekly, and long-term goals.
Most Important Skills for a Senior Cybersecurity Analyst at Aleta Technologies Inc.
Aleta Technologies Inc.'s Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, Ian, emphasizes a "willingness to learn" and the importance of "asking questions" as paramount skills. This continuous learning, coupled with effective communication to clarify needs, has been instrumental in Ian's career success.
Favorite Parts Of Being A Senior Cybersecurity Analyst At Aleta Technologies
Ian, a Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, most enjoys the "ability to...attain knowledge or...fix something or present something," a process fueled by the constantly evolving field, requiring continuous learning about "new threats, new threat actors, how to mitigate vulnerabilities," and emerging technologies like AI. This necessitates a broad skillset and proactive approach to identifying knowledge gaps.
Biggest Challenges For A Senior Cybersecurity Analyst At Aleta Technologies
Ian's biggest challenge as a Senior Cybersecurity Analyst involves bridging the gap between government regulations and private industry priorities regarding industrial control systems (ICS) security, describing this as "a spirited discussion" needing more funding and resources. A further hurdle is fostering collaboration between IT and OT professionals, overcoming "a big divide" and ingrained practices to integrate cybersecurity across both sectors, a process Ian notes is improving, albeit "at a glacial pace."
Favorite Parts Of Working In Cybersecurity As A Senior Cybersecurity Analyst
Ian, a Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, most enjoys the collaborative nature of the industry, citing "very smart, very interesting people" who are "very happy to share their knowledge" and readily mentor others. This collaborative spirit, particularly strong in the "new frontier" of OT cybersecurity, allows for continuous learning and teaching opportunities, shaping strong professional relationships and enriching Ian's career.
What Type Of Person Thrives In The Cybersecurity Industry, According To A Senior Cybersecurity Analyst At Aleta Technologies
Success in the cybersecurity industry hinges on a "willingness to learn and fail," embracing continuous growth and not fearing the unknown, as Ian from Aleta Technologies Inc. notes. This involves actively seeking help, confidently tackling new challenges, and maintaining a positive, fun-filled approach throughout the learning process.
What A Senior Cybersecurity Analyst At Aleta Technologies Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Cybersecurity Industry
Ian, a Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, emphasizes the importance of embracing the learning process, stating that "it's okay that you don't know everything" in a field with vast knowledge. The most insightful advice offered is to focus on asking impactful questions, such as "what will it cost and what's the impact," rather than solely focusing on technical solutions, and to continuously learn from mistakes, similar to refining academic work.
Entry-level positions for aspiring Cybersecurity professionals
Entry-level cybersecurity roles for undergraduates include Security Operations Center analyst, help desk, network administration, and system administration positions, often stemming from roles like "computer repair shop salesperson," as Ian's career path exemplifies. Building a professional network through career fairs, university resources, and online platforms like LinkedIn is crucial for securing internships and entry-level positions, supplemented by certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or A+, demonstrating a commitment to ongoing learning and skill development.
Significant Career Lesson From A Senior Cybersecurity Analyst At Aleta Technologies
A significant career lesson learned was that "it's okay not to know everything," emphasizing the importance of starting from the ground level, building upon experiences, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance; this includes understanding personal boundaries and recognizing when to seek additional knowledge or delegate tasks outside their scope.
College Experiences That Helped A Senior Cybersecurity Analyst At Aleta Technologies Succeed
Ian's undergraduate experience significantly shaped their career success by fostering "relationship skills," including navigating group dynamics, managing conflict, and balancing competing priorities—skills directly transferable to professional team environments. This emphasis on emotional intelligence and learning "how to listen, um, when to listen, also, when to not listen," proved invaluable in their career as a Senior Cybersecurity Analyst.
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